Arizona To Ban Greyhound Racing by End of 2016

by Diana Faria

Published: March 21st, 2016

arizona to ban greyhound racing by end of 2016

The sport of betting on greyhound racing is on its last legs in the United States. The state of Arizona plans to ban the cruel practice by the end of this year.

Many who attend Greyhound dog races and bet on what they hope to be the winning dog believe that the dogs absolutely live for this sport. They may even utter the words “they’re bred for this!”, knowing little to nothing about the cruelties they and other animals face behind the scenes.

Just to give you an example, many different types of small animals are used as “bait” to get the dogs to run (such as rabbits, possums and even kittens) and they never make it out alive. Also, once the dogs retire (mostly due to injuries like broken legs, backs and head trauma), they don’t exactly have happy endings, to say the least.

These are just a few reasons why the Senate is reportedly eager to pass the ban after Arizona’s Senate Finance Committee unanimously agreed to make it illegal. If the practice becomes illegal, it will make horse racing the only live sport in the state. Horse racing is not without its cruelties either, but we’ll take it one step at a time. For now, the dogs at Arizona’s only Greyhound racing track (the Tucson Greyhound Park) will soon have their day of freedom.

Currently, there are still many states where Greyhound racing is legal – Oregon, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Iowa, Alabama, Florida, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Of those listed, six have active tracks; these include Iowa, Arkansas, Alabama, Florida and West Virginia and Arizona, the state in question.

There were a total of 819 injuries alone at Tucson Greyhound Park reported 2008, 2009 and from June 2013 through July 2015 according to a report made by Grey2K USA. Furthermore, the park was under investigation after several of their athlete dogs died due to “fatal illness.” The investigators found that the dogs were being kept in tiny cages and were muzzled nearly all the time.

The Greyhound racing world is a cruel one and hopefully, with Arizona soon banning the awful practice, the remaining states where Greyhound racing is still legal will also change legislation.

[ Source: OneGreenPlanet, Grey2K USA ]

Diana Faria

More by Diana Faria

What Are Dogs Allergic To In The Spring?

View Article

Florida Senator Wants Voters to Ban Dog Racing

Much to the chagrin of many animal lovers, dog racing is still a hot ticket in some states. Florida voters will have the opportunity to ban dog racing in the state in 2018. Dog racing is a banned sport in 40 states in America. But in some, particularly Florida, special interest groups find it a big moneymaker, and always seem to find a way to prevent legislation banning it from going through. Florida Senator Tom Lee says that every year, there is a bill to ban the practice, and every year, some special interest group hijacks it for leverage on other issues (or because they don’t want to ban the practice) and the bill never follows through. Related: Shocking Stats Reveal The True Cost Of Greyhound Racing Senator Lee says that he wants to let the citizens of Florida decide whether the practice, which is based on 12 dog tracks in the state, should be banned forever. Lee has filed a constitutional amendment that proposes phasing out dog racing in Florida over the next three years, and he says that this is based on the recommendations of many within the industry who say that the phase-out plan is actually better for the dogs. Senator Lee said that in talking with people, a proposal that would end the practice immediately would sadly result in the shooting and killing of the dogs. The racing of dogs is an abhorrent concept for many, especially animal rights advocates who say that the dogs, mostly greyhounds, are mistreated in poor kennels and often given performance-enhancing drugs even. Some even argue that immediate euthanasia is better than the alternative of more time racing and being treated so poorly. In May of this year, a greyhound race trainer in St. Petersburg had his license revoked because six of his dogs tested positive for cocaine. Malcom McAllister had 40 years of experience with dog racing, and while some insist he is not representative of the industry of dog racing, many can’t help but wonder how the dogs could be treated humanely as such commodity. Calvin Holland races his greyhounds in St. Petersburg, though, and says that his dogs are all treated like family and given good homes when they retire from racing. He says his dogs are never abused, and live good lives with families when they no longer race. His family has five generations of dog racing, and he doesn’t want to see it go because it is such tradition in his family. Related: Arizona To Ban Greyhound Racing by End of 2016 Senator Lee says, though, that dog racing costs the state big money simply to regulate it–about $4 million dollars a year. It’s not worth the money lost, or the danger to the dogs. He also says that those who complain that ending dog racing would put thousands out of work simply is putting profit before ethics, and that just because something is money and job-making, it doesn’t make it the right thing to do. In order for the voters to be able to have it on the ballot to decide in 2018, Senator Lee needs 2/3rd of the members of the Constitution Revision Commission to vote alongside him.

Does My Dog Need Winter Boots?

The days are growing colder and colder, and your pet is more and more hesitant when it’s time to go out for a potty break – who could blame them? It’s not like we owners don’t need to give ourselves a pep talk when it’s time to take our dogs out for a walk when it’s snowing outside or the icy wind is whipping everything in sight.While winter can be very unpleasant for your dog, there are ways to keep your pooch toasty and more comfortable when the temperatures drop, ranging from  cozy winter coats, warm blankets, and protective winter boots. Yes, those cute little booties are more than a fashion statement – if you’ve been questioning their efficacy, read on to find out if your pet could use a pair of nice winter boots to keep their paws snug and warm.Does My Dog Need Winter Boots?You might think that paws are naturally protected from the cold ground and rough terrain thanks to their unique properties, but that’s only partially true. Not all doggos are built the same. As they come in different shapes and sizes, and with different coat lengths, it means that they will experience winter and cold temperatures in different ways. But even so, no dog’s paw should be left to endure the snow, the ice, and the  rock salt on the asphalt streets. That means that dog boots in winter are far more than a simple piece of the outfit. They protect, keep warm, and ensure that your dog’s paws are safe from injuries, irritations, and dangerous substances. Of course, some dogs need winter boots more than others. Small and toy dogs are much more vulnerable to cold and low temperatures, and they will need protection from the elements without a doubt – that means both a winter jacket and boots. The same goes for senior dogs, whose aching joints and paw pads are much more vulnerable to the elements than they were when they were young.Ultimately, however, dogs of all ages and sizes should be accustomed to wearing dog boots. They protect your pet’s paws in any weather, and come with a range of other advantages, too – these are the main five benefits of dog boots:#1 TractionThanks to dog boots, your pet will no longer have trouble walking on icy or slick surfaces. Boots provide grip and traction, and your next wintery outing will be much safer and faster thanks to them. This is especially important to seniors, who can seriously injure themselves and endanger their mobility due to slips and falls on icy surfaces.#2 InsulationThe boots are there to protect from extreme temperatures. This goes for both winter and summer. So whether it’s ice and cold, or the hot summer asphalt, the boots are there to provide safety – no frostbite on the paw pads, no burns on their delicate little beans.#3 HygieneCleaning your dog’s paws after every walk can quickly become a tiring chore – kudos to you if it doesn’t. Winter brings mud and slush with it, and without the boots, all that mess remains on the paws and gets inside your house, so you need to  clean your pet’s paws every single time you come in from outside. `thanks to dog boots, this can be a thing of the past.#4 Comfort and careDogs can have very sensitive paw pads, especially if they are older and cracked. Thanks to dog boots, winter doesn’t have to exacerbate these issues. Padded and comfy, dog boots ensure that walking on various surfaces is smooth and pain-free.#5 Prevention of injuriesWhen it comes to the protection of paw pads, nothing beats dog boots. In winter, there are a lot of hazards on the walking surface. Ice shards, frozen rocks, icy puddles, and rock salt – the list is endless. Thanks to the protection of the boots, your pet will be safe from abrasions, cuts, and frostbite.

Are Dog Bars the New Dog Park?

Socializing with other pet parents over a cold one, just got easier!

Can Counterconditioning Help My Reactive Dog?

Caring for and managing a reactive dog can be incredibly frustrating. Your dog may be a sweet angel at home, but they suddenly evolve into a barking, growling, lunging whirlwind when out in public.Luckily, there is hope!Overcoming reactivity is a process that will not happen overnight. However, dog trainers and behaviorists have seen great success with positive reinforcement techniques like counterconditioning.This article will explore how counterconditioning works, the steps involved in the process, realistic timelines and expectations, and tips for a successful journey toward a calmer, more confident dog. Get started today!What is Counterconditioning for Dogs?Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is counterconditioning, and why is it recommended for managing and treating reactive dogs?Counterconditioning is a behavioral modification technique that focuses on changing your dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus.For example, some dogs feel fear and anxiety at the sight of another dog. This could be due to a lack of socialization, meaning they weren’t taught that other dogs can be friendly. It could also be a reaction to a past trauma, like having been attacked by another dog. In these situations, counterconditioning can be used to teach your dog that the sight of another dog leads to a positive experience.Why is this an effective approach for addressing reactivity? Reactivity, by definition, is an overreaction to a trigger. While this is often associated with fear or anxiety, some reactive dogs become overly excited. An overexcited dog may jump all over strangers not because they are trying to cause harm but because they are so excited to see them that they can’t control their response.If you have identified your dog’s triggers, you can use this training approach to teach them to respond in a new (and better) way.What Can Counterconditioning Be Used to Treat?Reactivity isn’t the only behavioral condition that can be treated with counterconditioning. This technique can be used to address a wide spectrum of situations in which a pet may be responding to a situation or trigger in an unwanted way.Some situations where it is commonly recommended include helping dogs overcome specific fears or phobias as well as managing or overcoming behaviors related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.Common fears that may be addressed with counterconditioning include: Fear of car ridesAnxiety when visiting the vetNoises (fireworks, thunder)Babies (especially the sound of crying)Strangers or other dogs in publicAllowing guests to enter their homePhysical triggers like cars or bicyclesDogs who dislike grooming, like brushing or having their nails trimmedIf you believe this approach may be helpful in your dog’s unique situation, we recommend speaking with a behaviorist.You can find professionals in your area by browsing the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists website list or the Animal Behavior Consultants Directory by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

How Do I Fix My Cat's Matted Fur?

Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Bengal Cats Really That Wild? Here's What Science Has to Say.

Bengal cats are a truly stunning feline breed, in many ways. According to the International Cat Association (TICA), they hold the title of being the most popular cat breed globally, and it doesn’t really come as a surprise. Their unique and exotic appearance, their unavoidable charm, and their slender physique are certainly the reason for this prestigious title. But even though they are popular, Bengal cats are a relatively new breed in the field of domesticated cats. While most ordinary domestic cat breeds have been around for thousands of years, Bengal cats have been around for less than a century, which comes as a stark contrast. They are a hybrid breed as well, having been created in the 1960s. They came about from the crossing of the domestic cat (Felis Catus), and the Asian Leopard cats (Prionailurus Bengalensis), which are a small, spotted, wild cat species living in Asia. What makes the combination unique is the fact that these two cat species had a common ancestor about 6 million years ago, which means that the genetic differences between them are incredible. The differences are even greater than between humans and chimpanzees!The resulting breed is the Bengal cat, and it is adored for its exotic appearance. It has special spots, just like ocelots or leopards. But most folks ascribe the unique coloration and patterns of these felines to the DNA they received from their wild and distantly related ancestors. And that’s why scientific folks paid special attention to the ancestry of Bengal cats. Greg Barsh, MD, Ph.D., Faculty Investigator at HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology and Professor of Genetics at Stanford University,  himself an expert in the genetics of feline coat coloration and patterning is a key figure in the research process of Bengal ancestry. Together with his team, which is led by Chris Kaelin, Ph.D., and Kelly McGowan, MD, Ph.D., Mr. Barsh is working hard towards unraveling Bengal ancestry through the genetics of popular color traits."Cats are wonderful companions," he explains for  Phys.org, "but our interests go beyond their beautiful and exotic appearance. Like the amazing variation among different dog breeds, artificial selection can be a very powerful engine to create morphologic diversity. What's different about Bengal cats from dogs is the raw genetic material–dogs trace their heritage to wolves from tens of thousands of years ago.""In contrast, Bengal cats trace their heritage to completely different species from millions of years ago. Understanding how these distantly related genomes interact is a general question that applies to any situation when different species exchange genes, from crops to aquaculture to humans and Neandertals."And even though this is a relatively new breed, started about 60 years ago by a few cat enthusiasts, it has grown incredibly during this time. Today, there are hundreds of thousands of registered Bengal cats, which are produced by about 2,000 breeders. Chris Kaelin, the leader of the Bengal cat DNA study, said “Cat fanciers and breeders are very interested in the research, in part because they want to know more about the science behind artificial selection, and in part, because they want to know if our results can help them produce cats with rosettes, stripes, or other exotic markings.” He also added "This is a great example of citizen science–our work has been enabled by the willingness of breeders to participate, and we share our results with the community."One of the surprising discoveries that was produced from the study is that Asian Leopard DNA contributes no more than a few percent to the overall Bengal Cat DNA. In fact, it is revealed that there isn’t one or even a few Asian leopard genes that are causing the unique spotted Bengal appearance. "One of the original motivations for bringing together DNA from the two species was to select for Asian leopard DNA that would recapitulate the appearance of an exotic wild cat in a companion animal," said Kaelin. "It turns out that some of the most striking examples of selection in the breed are for traits that were already present, but very rare, in domestic cats."So, the study reveals that the Bengals are in many ways totally unique. Mixing the two very unique breeds resulted in a cat that is exotic, elegant, charming, and above all loveable. And now, the results published are providing valuable information to all the enthusiasts in love with the Bengal breed. 

Hypothermia in Cats: What You Should Know

Hypothermia puts your cat’s health at risk, and if not treated in time, can be fatal. So, it’s wise to know even just the basics about hypothermia so you can recognize the symptoms and get your cat the help they need right away. Here’s a short guide to get you started.

Possible Cancer Vaccine for Dogs in the Works

Mark your calendar because May 2024 marks the end of a 5-year clinical trial that may put an end to many canine cancers.

What Are the Symptoms of Dementia in Dogs?

As the years go by, health issues tend to pile up, even in canines. Old age can bring a range of problems – some doggos have troubles with arthritis and limited mobility, while others suffer from cognitive decline and experience issues such as dementia. That’s right, even dogs can suffer from dementia, which is also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). This illness can bring about some troubling changes in your pet’s behavior, and it would be wise to be familiar with all the symptoms of dementia, especially if you are a senior dog owner. Let’s go over them and get familiar with the challenges of canine dementia.Doggy Dementia: Symptoms and What To ExpectAs your pet reaches their golden years, some issues are bound to pop up, including dementia. Known as canine cognitive dysfunction, it has similar symptoms to Alzheimer's disease in humans. The main cause is the aging of the dog’s brain, which results in many troubling issues. Of course, CCD doesn’t happen to all old dogs. Latest studies revealed that it only happens to roughly 50% of dogs that are over 11 years old. Of course, if you own a senior doggo, it is wise to get to know the symptoms of dog dementia. Here are some of the most common ones:Confusion and Disorientation:As dementia sets in, your pet might seem suddenly disoriented and awfully confused. They could get lost in spaces that should be all too familiar to them (the house for example), or could just stand and stare blankly into space. Major Sleep Pattern Changes:Dogs tend to have a solid sleep routine. But with dementia, this can suddenly change. They could experience alterations in their sleep-wake cycle, sleep a lot during the day, and become restless and sleepless throughout the entire night.Loss of Interest:Your dog, with dementia, could suddenly become a totally different pet. They could lose all interest in common interactions. They could have zero interest in playing with you or interacting with the family members. The same goes for interacting with other pets, or playing with toys - even if they were their favorites. Forgetting Housetraining:

New Bill Will Eliminate Housing Barriers for Pet Owners In California

California tenants with pets rejoice - a new bill that stops landlords from denying housing to pet owners is in the works!The chair of the California Legislative Renters Caucus, Matt Haney, has introduced legislation that would compel landlords to accept tenants with pets. The bill, AB 2216, will insist that landlords have reasonable reason(s) for not allowing a pet in the rental unit. The biggest change, however, is that the bill prevents property owners from asking about pet ownership before the tenant’s application has been approved.The new bill, which is sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States, aims to solve a big problem in the rental world - a surplus of tenants with pets and a lack of landlords willing to rent to them.California has one of the highest number of tenants in the country, and close to 70% of them are pet owners. Alas, under current law, only around 30% of all rentals are pet-friendly. The lack of pet-friendly housing is causing almost a million tenants to keep pets in their rentals hidden from their landlords. This solves nothing. On one hand, landlords are left without adequate coverage for potential damages. On the other hand, pet owners are left living in constant fear of being kicked out of their homes. Andrea Amavisca, a senior legislative advocate at the California Immigration Policy Center, told the LA Times that she and her partner spent over a month looking for a two-bedroom rental in Sacramento that would allow for a small cattle dog mix.“Landlords that initially liked our application would suddenly stop answering our calls once they found out we had a dog. Or others would require a pet deposit close to $1,000 that would put the unit totally out of our budget.”Amavisca added it felt unfair that almost every landlord had a different pet policy with varying fees they could change as they pleased. Some landlords charged only $20 a month while others asked for four-figure cleaning deposits. The new bill doesn’t address fees and doesn’t prevent landlords from excluding certain types of pets. Haney’s legislation defines a common household pet as a domesticated animal, such as a cat or dog, that is kept in the home for pleasure rather than commercial uses. While pet owners are relieved to hear about the legislation, property owners are already expressing their concerns. The biggest issue is that landlords will be forced to take on pets, and the increased risk of potential property damage that comes with pets, without a pet deposit as a safeguard. Haney explained that exceptions would be made for landlords with reasonable excuses for not allowing pets on their property. “What we see too often is just these blanket prohibitions of pets with no good reason for it, with no required justification for it and no protection of pet owners, who represent the majority of California’s renters, to be able to access housing just like anyone else,” said Haney.According to Jenny Berg, California director for the Humane Society of the United States, extra fees and bans add to the overcrowding crisis in animal shelters nationwide. “One of the reasons why people relinquish their pets is because they can’t find affordable housing or housing at all that can accommodate their pets,” she said. Haney’s bill could make a massive change, as it would remove the barriers tenants face when looking for housing for them and their four-legged companions.“We want a renter to be considered first and decision made about whether they meet the requirements for the apartment,” said Haney. “And then, after that fact, they disclose that they have a pet. And only if there’s a reasonable rationale to deny them, that would be allowed.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Scientists May Have Found a Better Way To Trim a Cat’s Nails

Trimming a cat’s nails is often a daunting affair for everyone involved. Most cats should have their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Failing to do so leaves you and your furniture at the mercy of your kitty’s sharp claws.Specially designed to be smaller, cat nail clippers or scissors are commonly used to trim a cat’s nails, but they can be difficult to handle, especially if your cat doesn’t want to cooperate or is anxious. Additionally, there’s always a risk that you’ll end up scratched, bitten, and bleeding.This is where science can come in handy! Researchers from the University of California, Davis, are working with Sacramento SPCA to make nail trimming less stressful for cats and their owners. Jennifer Link, a Ph.D. student at the University of California, Davis, Animal Welfare Epi Lab, is working on a multistep protocol designed to desensitize the cats to handling and nail clipping. In mid-July, Link started to visit the Sacramento shelter five days a week for two hours to work on socializing rescued and surrendered cats to help them adjust to new people, situations, and environments. By the end of September, she had worked with more than 70 cats. “When people hear that I study cats, many ask if I can help them with nail trims,” said Link. According to Dan Marple, the animal welfare manager at the Sacramento Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, this research is vital to staff, donors, and volunteers because it can reduce the stress caused by nail trimming.“Any new protocols that increase the comfort and safe handling of the cats in our care will also improve their overall well-being and adoptability,” he added. Link’s research is promising because it incorporates cooperative care. This means that cats are allowed to decide how much they want to interact with the handler during the training process. Depending on their willingness to participate, the cats go through one of three scenarios with Link: a handling-only training protocol, a handling and nail-trimming protocol, or a control with no training and only a nail trim. Each interaction is recorded to be analyzed later. On the days when Link visits the shelter, the cats are removed from their cages and brought to a quiet room where Link is waiting, with a mat laid out before her. If a cat puts their front paws on the mat, they are given treats and cuddles. The idea is for cats to learn that Link interacts with them only when they put their paws on the mat. Once the cat leans this, Link proceeds with training protocols. Slowly, Link touches the cat’s legs, then the paws, and then the paws are gently squeezed. If the cat doesn’t resist, one nail is trimmed. The protocol builds on past steps and works up. When a cat goes through all the steps, they get a nail trim. If a cat doesn’t place their paws on the mat or rejects any step, Link stops the handling.“I think with cooperative care, it does seem to almost improve their trust in me,” Link explained. “They are more comfortable if we let them decide.”This research could make nail trimming at home much more comfortable for the cats and their owners. It can also decrease the number of visits to veterinary hospitals and clinics, where owners often seek help trimming their cats’ nails. The researchers still need to analyze the video sessions to finalize the protocol. And if the protocol is deemed helpful, they will share it with other shelters for more data.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Rising Pet Care Costs Lead to More Surrenders

Thanks to a rising cost of living, more people are surrendering their pets to animal shelters or abandoning them on the street. According to Shelter Animals Count, the end of 2023 saw a whopping 250,000 more pets in shelters compared to a year prior. They’ve even seen a rise in the number of purebred dogs and puppies who entered shelters, and there aren’t enough animals being adopted.  Overcrowded Shelters Around the U.S.The stats say it all, and this heartbreaking problem is found all over the United States. For example, compared to 2022, Animal Care Centers of NYC saw the number of abandoned dogs they took in go up 41%, and they’d run out of space as of the start of 2024. Tragically, the shelter also euthanized a higher number of dogs (2% more) in 2023 compared to the previous year.     Animal shelters in Kentucky, such as Franklin County Humane Society, are also struggling to keep up as they deal with more surrenders and strays. The state’s shelters are full, and they’re having a hard time because so many people are giving up their pets as a result of rising costs.The Nevada Humane Society is yet another example of a shelter that has seen a rise in pet surrenders because people are finding it harder to afford their animals or they’re finding it difficult to locate housing that will let them keep their pets. In 2023, the shelter saw a 65% increase in the number of dogs that were surrendered to them.Financial Hardship and Housing Issues Are Driving ForcesWhy are so many people giving up their pets? Financial hardship and difficulty finding places to live that are affordable and accept pets are a couple of the big reasons. Many people struggle with the rising cost of living not only for themselves but also for their pets, as everything from pet food and supplies to veterinary care has gotten more expensive.  Shelters across the United States are doing what they can to encourage people to adopt and prevent people from surrendering their pets. For example, Animal Care Centers of NYC offered pet parents help in the form of training assistance, free food, and temporary boarding, and those efforts worked to avoid nearly 3,000 surrenders in 2023.  There Are Ways You Can HelpYou can do your part to support animal shelters and pet parents that are struggling. In addition to monetary donations, you can donate pet food. Or, you can offer to foster one or more animals who are currently waiting for their forever homes. And you can adopt a pet in need of a home—you might even find shelters in your area that have discounted adoption fees as a means to help people afford their new best friend.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Yoga mat, water bottle,... lint roller?

Furry friends bring a new twist to traditional yoga.

Is Aquarium Salt Safe for Plants?

All those in love with the fascinating world of aquatics know how sensitive and (sometimes) demanding pet fish and  aquarium plants are. The aquarium plant life in particular can be very vulnerable, reacting to the smallest changes in the tank’s environment. Naturally, this begs the question: could adding salt to your tank potentially kill its plant life? Or is salt beneficial for your aquarium’s flora? These are the questions that need to be answered carefully, as there are different types of salt used, and not all have the same effects on the many different aquarium plants. Let’s dive deeper into the topic!Is Aquarium Salt Safe for Plants? Aquarium salt, when used properly, has many uses in an aquarium setting. It can help with certain issues like treating fish diseases and promoting electrolyte balance in fish. But what about plants? The key to using salt with aquarium plants is moderation and research. There are different types of salt on the market, so you should inquire about their properties and possible effects on fish and plants. Secondly, always use it in moderation. When used in the right amounts, salt can be beneficial. However, the excessive use of salt can be harmful to plants, as it can disrupt their osmotic balance and lead to dehydration or nutrient imbalances. In fact, put too much of it, and you can kill all the plants AND the fish in the tank!But what is the osmotic balance? Like all living organisms, plants maintain a delicate balance of water and salts within their cells. When exposed to high concentrations of salt, such as those found in aquarium salt products, plants can experience “osmotic stress”. This stress occurs because the salt outside the plant's roots creates a higher concentration of solutes in the soil than inside the plant cells. As a result, water is drawn out of the plant, leading to dehydration and potential damage – and even death.Excessive salt in the aquarium soil can also interfere with a plant's ability to absorb essential nutrients. Sodium ions, which are a component of salt, can compete with other positively charged ions like potassium, calcium, and magnesium that plants need for healthy growth. This competition can disrupt nutrient uptake and lead to deficiencies, even if those nutrients are present in the soil.Another confusing factor is that some aquarium plants are much more tolerant than others. Halophytes, for example, are plants that have evolved to thrive in saline environments and can withstand higher levels of salt in the soil and water. However, most freshwater aquarium plants are not adapted to high-salt conditions and can suffer greatly when aquarium salt is introduced to the tank. You should also consider the types of salt available. Sea salt, for example, is much different and more complex than ordinary table salt. It contains sodium chloride, and minerals like potassium, zinc, and calcium. As such, it is only suitable for use in aquariums that have marine fish and  invertebrates, and plants naturally occurring in salt waters. 

What Size of Cage Does My Hamster Need?

Final Thoughts: The Best Hamster Cage SetupWhen setting up your hamster’s habitat, consider the floor space available. They are active and energetic creatures that need to be able to run, demanding more freedom to move than is often available in the overly hyped commercial cages. Instead, ensure the cage offers at least 24” by 12” of floor space on the main floor. Several cage styles are available, including wire cages, glass aquariums, and plastic pens. If you want to extend their habitat with a second floor, be cautious about the risk of injury. A long fall can be catastrophic. Include all necessities on the main floor of your hamster’s cage. This includes plenty of bedding to burrow into, clean hay, chew toys/enrichment opportunities, an appropriately sized exercise wheel, and access to fresh food and water. A proper habitat is the foundation for a happy, healthy life for your furry friend! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Much Exercise Does My Cat Need?

Cats are often known for their laidback and aloof personalities, lounging around the house like true couch potatoes. But just like us, our kitties need regular exercise to live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. That’s where your job as a cat parent comes in! In this article, we will explore the importance of exercise for your cat, including how much exercise they need, the benefits of being active, and fun ways to include more physical activity in your cat’s daily routine. Whether you have an energetic young kitten or a calm senior cat, understanding their exercise needs can make a significant difference in their overall well-being. How Much Playtime Does an Indoor Cat Need? When choosing the perfect pet for your family, you have likely heard about how laid back and easy to care for cats can be. After all, they just lounge around the house all day. Right? The truth is that your cat needs daily activity to stay healthy and in shape. The exact amount of exercise your cat needs will depend on several factors, including their age, breed, lifestyle, and individual health needs. For example, a cat that is obese and needs to lose weight to improve their health may need more physical activity than a cat that is already of a healthy weight. That being said, the general rule of thumb is that a healthy adult cat should be engaging in 30 to 60 minutes of active playtime every day, split into shorter 10 or 15-minute play sessions. If you are unsure about your cat’s specific needs, contact your veterinarian. They will be able to provide insight into how exercise and playtime can improve or help to maintain your cat’s quality of life at this stage and as they continue to age. How Do I Know My Cat is Getting Enough Exercise? There are several behavioral signs that a cat isn’t getting enough exercise that you can watch out for. Cats that don’t engage in regular physical activity often suffer from boredom, depression, or anxiety. While our cats obviously can’t speak to tell us this, we can pay attention to their body language and behavior to catch any signs of trouble. Some key signs to watch out for include: Destructive Behavior: One of the first signs people notice when a cat is bored is that they start to exhibit bad habits and destructive behavior. This could include scratching your furniture, tearing apart the toilet paper, ripping curtains or screens, or stealing items they know they shouldn’t. It’s like a young child. They are bored and looking for ways to keep themselves entertained. Excessive Vocalization: Do you have a naturally vocal cat? If so, they may be trying to tell you that something’s wrong verbally. Some cats, when bored, will cry out for attention. This is a behavior we see in our two every time their morning playtime is even 5 minutes late. Change of Appetite: If they are feeling anxious or highly stressed, some cats will stop eating. Others, like humans, will turn to food during times of boredom. Any unexplained changes to your cat’s diet should be considered a sign of trouble – whether it’s a need for more exercise or something health-related.Over-Grooming: Cats are masters of self-grooming, but if a cat is stressed, anxious, or bored, they may take their grooming too far. This can often lead to the development of bald patches or skin irritation. Aggression or Irritation: Some cats become irritable or upset when experiencing stress and anxiety. This could result in uncharacteristic biting or scratching directed towards you, other family members, or other pets in the home. Loss of Energy or Lethargy: This may come as a surprise as most people will associate not enough exercise with having pent-up energy just begging to come out. However, a cat that isn’t getting enough physical activity can become depressed, which may present as being lazy, uninterested, or more aloof than usual. Another important sign to watch out for is unexplained weight gain. Just as humans will gain weight if they aren’t getting enough exercise, so will your cat. Sure, they likely aren’t concerned with “how they look” each morning – but obesity is a growing problem in the United States and can introduce serious health consequences!

Is A Wet Dog's Nose Good or Bad?

A dog’s nose is their tool for discovering the world around them through scent, but dog noses are important for much more than sniffing – the state of your pet’s nose can sometimes be indicative of their health. It can be dry and flaky or wet and soft, so what is better? Is a dry nose a bad sign? Or a wet one? Or are they both normal? These are the questions that are often proving to be troubling for dog owners. So let’s try and answer them once and for all!Is A Wet Dog's Nose Good or Bad?A wet dog's nose is usually a sign of good health. Most often, the nose is wet because the doggo is licking it! They do this frequently in order to keep them clean and to enhance their sense of smell. In fact, a moist nose helps them trap scent particles more effectively. The moisture on their nose captures scent molecules from the air, allowing them to better identify and track smells. This ability is crucial for tasks such as hunting, tracking, and even detecting certain medical conditions in humans. 

Blue Ridge Beef Recalls Kitten and Puppy Food Due to Bacteria

Blue Ridge Beef, one of the foremost pet food companies in North Carolina, decided to recall their 2-pound kitten and puppy food because of a serious potential threat of listeria and salmonella in their kibble. The pet food in question was distributed to locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.Unfortunately, North Carolina Department of Agriculture discovered a serious issue when analyzing their product, realizing that one lot of each of the food products was positive for salmonella and listeria, on December 15th. This included kitten food lots “N24 1114-N24 1224”, of 2-lb logs of “Kitten Grind” (UPC 8 54298 00101 6), and “Kitten Mix” (UPC UPC 8 54298 00143 6). Also included was the “Puppy Mix” (UPC 8 54298 00169 6).The action was swift to pull these products from the shelves, as both listeria and salmonella can be very dangerous to pets who consume the contaminated food. It can also be harmful to humans who touch the food as well, especially pregnant women and children. Pets who get infected can suffer from vomiting, fever, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite, so if you notice any of these symptoms and your pet has been eating the food that is now recalled, make sure to take them to a vet for treatment ASAP.Luckily, the Blue Ridge Beef company announced that so far it has not received any reports of illnesses that are connected to this recall of food. Likewise, the company is not facing any legal action because of the recall. Pet owners who purchased this food are encouraged to contact Blue Ridge Beef company at  blueridgebeefnc@yahoo.com for a full refund. Consumers can also get in touch with Steven Lea, from 8 am. to 5:30 pm. ET Monday-Friday at (704) 880-4500. 

Top stories

Arizona To Ban Greyhound Racing by End of 2016

What Are Dogs Allergic To In The Spring?

Guide Dog Trigger Retires After Fathering Over 300 Puppies

Top stories

Arizona To Ban Greyhound Racing by End of 2016

Related articles